Oral Mini-pulse Research Articles

Evaluation the Efficacy of NB-UVB Treatment Alone in Comparison with Combination Therapy of NB-UVB and Oral Prednisolone in Treatment of Vitiligo

Background: The treatment landscape for vitiligo has witnessed diverse approaches yielding variable outcomes. Objective: To discern the optimal approach in terms of both tolerability and efficacy by comparing Narrow Band Ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy with adjunctive oral mini pulse (OMP) prednisolone tablets. Patients and Methods: A total of eighty-seven individuals with progressive vitiligo were enrolled in a one-year study, with participants allocated randomly across three study groups through a continuous selection method. Group 1 received a combination of NB-UVB and OMP prednisolone tablets, group 2 underwent NB-UVB treatment only, and group 3 received OMP prednisolone tablets alone. Clinical assessments were conducted at three- and six-month intervals, and statistical analyses were performed utilizing descriptive and bivariate techniques, including the chi-square test, to gauge the significance of differences between the various groups. Results: In Group 1 (NB-UVB + OMP), substantial improvement was observed in 41.4%, accompanied by moderate improvement in 44.8% of patients. Group 2 (NB-UVB) demonstrated marked improvement in 31.0% and moderate improvement in 38.0%. In Group 3 (OMP), a lower proportion experienced marked (13.8%) or moderate (3.4%) improvement. Chi-square test findings indicated that the combination of NB-UVB and OMP correlated significantly with marked and moderate improvement in contrast to OMP alone, with respective values of χ² = 6.434 (p = 0.001) and χ² = 7.831 (p = 0.015) after a six-month follow-up. Conclusion: Through a comprehensive evaluation of three treatment modalities in vitiligo patients, it was established that the sole application of oral mini pulse steroids (OMP) held an adjunctive value, lacking substantial efficacy on its own. Remarkably, the amalgamation of Narrow Band UVB and OMP presented a clear advantage over either treatment administered independently. Keywords: Vitiligo, NB-UVB, OMP, Prednisolone.

Evaluation the efficacy of NB-UVB treatment alone in comparison with combination therapy of NB-UVB and oral prednisolone in treatment of vitiligo

Background: The treatment landscape for vitiligo has witnessed diverse approaches yielding variable outcomes. Objective: To discern the optimal approach in terms of both tolerability and efficacy by comparing Narrow Band Ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) phototherapy with adjunctive oral mini pulse (OMP) prednisolone tablets. Patients and Methods: A total of eighty-seven individuals with progressive vitiligo were enrolled in a one-year study, with participants allocated randomly across three study groups through a continuous selection method. Group 1 received a combination of NB-UVB and OMP prednisolone tablets, group 2 underwent NB-UVB treatment only, and group 3 received OMP prednisolone tablets alone. Clinical assessments were conducted at three- and six-month intervals, and statistical analyses were performed utilizing descriptive and bivariate techniques, including the chi-square test, to gauge the significance of differences between the various groups. Results: In Group 1 (NB-UVB + OMP), substantial improvement was observed in 41.4%, accompanied by moderate improvement in 44.8% of patients. Group 2 (NB-UVB) demonstrated marked improvement in 31.0% and moderate improvement in 38.0%. In Group 3 (OMP), a lower proportion experienced marked (13.8%) or moderate (3.4%) improvement. Chi-square test findings indicated that the combination of NB-UVB and OMP correlated significantly with marked and moderate improvement in contrast to OMP alone, with respective values of χ² = 6.434 (p = 0.001) and χ² = 7.831 (p = 0.015) after a six-month follow-up. Conclusion: Through a comprehensive evaluation of three treatment modalities in vitiligo patients, it was established that the sole application of oral mini pulse steroids (OMP) held an adjunctive value, lacking substantial efficacy on its own. Remarkably, the amalgamation of Narrow Band UVB and OMP presented a clear advantage over either treatment administered independently.

Combination of total glucosides of paeony, narrow-band ultraviolet B, and oral corticosteroid mini-pulse therapy for nonsegmental vitiligo: A retrospective study.

The total glucoside of paeony (TGP) is recognized for its immunomodulatory properties and anti-inflammatory effects. This study evaluates the efficacy of TGP combined with oral mini-pulse therapy (OMP) and narrow-band ultraviolet B (NB-UVB) in treating active nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV). The combination therapy was contrasted against those from a group treated solely with OMP and NB-UVB. Data from 62 patients undergoing TGP combination treatment and 55 without were analyzed over a 3-month period. After 6 months, the differences in recurrence rate were investigated by follow-up. The findings indicate that integrating TGP may yield superior outcomes compared to OMP + NB-UVB alone. Moreover, the patient's oxidative stress makers were significantly reduced after the treatment. The majority of patients in the TGP cohort exhibited enhanced skin pigmentation over the duration. Notably, no increase in side effects or recurrence was observed in this group. Especially, patients with vitiligo on their head and neck experienced pronounced improvements. The efficacy of the combination treatment group was better than that of the control group at 2 and 3 months, and there was no difference in recurrence rate and side effects, suggesting that TGP may continue to show efficacy in NSV for a longer period of time by reducing the level of oxidative stress, and is especially suitable for patients with head and neck lesions.

Role of Koebner phenomenon in predicting the clinical profile and course of vitiligo

Background: Koebner phenomenon (KP) is a clinical indicator of disease activity in vitiligo. Few studies have suggested that it may also be used to predict the clinical profile, prognosis, and response to therapy. Aims: To compare the clinical characteristics of vitiligo patients with different types of KP in an Indian population. Methods: A prospective longitudinal observational study was conducted from January to November 2016. Classification of KP was done according to the Vitiligo European Task Force guidelines into KP1-by history and KP2-by clinical examination (2A: lesions on friction areas and 2B: trauma-induced lesions). Results: Of the total 160 patients, KP was observed in 102 (63.8%) cases. Type 1 KP was seen in 43 (26.9%), type 2A in 87 (54.4%), and type 2B in 34 (21.3%) cases. Patients with KP1 and KP2B had an earlier age of presentation and disease onset, while those with KP2A had a higher age of presentation and disease onset. Incidence of other autoimmune disorders, higher BSA involvement and requirement of betamethasone oral mini pulse therapy were significantly higher in cases with KP1 and KP2A, while significantly elevated anti-thyroid peroxidase levels were seen in cases with KP2A. Also, lesser treatment response was noted among cases with KP1 and KP2A. Conclusion: KP is associated with increased disease activity and more extensive involvement of vitiligo. Type 2A KP was associated with a higher incidence of other autoimmune disorders, more extensive disease, and the use of systemic steroids for treatment, which were not seen in KP2B. Thus, these groups might define two different subsets of patients.

Effect of Topical 5% 5-Fluorouracil with Microneedling in Vitiligo Patients as an Additional Modality to Standard Treatment at Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract Background: Vitiligo is an inveterate disease of great aesthetic concern presenting with depigmented macules and patches. It is often incorrigible to medical treatment. Aim: To study the clinical profile of vitiligo patients and evaluate the effect of 5% 5-fluorouracil (5-FU) cream with microneedling. Materials and Methods: This observational analytical study was conducted from November 2019 to July 2021. A total of 33 adult vitiligo patients were treated with oral mini-pulse (dexamethasone) therapy and topical corticosteroid (clobetasol propionate 0.05%). Patient’s total number of vitiligo lesions with <10-cm size were counted and half of the lesions were treated with 5-FU + microneedling (Group A), while a remaining number of lesions were not treated with 5-FU + microneedling (Group B). In the case of the odd number of lesions, the total number of lesions minus one was considered and then divided into equal numbers for treatment. The procedure was performed every 2 weeks for 3 months. Clinical improvement was assessed monthly till 6 months by serial clinical photographs and grading scores. Results: Initiation of repigmentation started in the first month in Group A, whereas in Group B, it was seen in the second, which was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). Excellent improvement (>75% repigmentation) was noted in Group A as compared to Group B at the end of 6 months (P < 0.0001). Conclusions: Needling with 5% 5-FU appears to be a simple, safe, and effective treatment in vitiligo. It can be used in poor responders to conventional therapy.

A Real-World Study of Steroid-Free Monotherapy with Tofacitinib in Severe and Therapy-Recalcitrant Alopecia Areata, Alopecia Totalis, and Alopecia Universalis Cases: A Retrospective Analysis.

Alopecia areata (AA) presents with noncicatricial alopecia and has multifactorial etiology. Janus Kinase inhibitors (JAKibs) with potential efficacy and favorable side-effect profile are the first class of drugs to receive FDA approval in AA. Our primary objective was to assess the complete response rates to tofacitinib monotherapy in severe and recalcitrant AA, alopecia totalis (AT), and alopecia universalis (AU) patients using the latest percentage change in Severity of alopecia tool (SALT) score. We also aimed to analyze the various systemic agents used by these patients prior to the use of tofacitinib. Institutional records of 17 patients with severe or refractory AA, AT, and AU treated with tofacitinib monotherapy were analyzed, retrospectively. The response to tofacitinib therapy was determined after calculating percentage change in SALT score. End of treatment was defined as the dose which resulted in a significant response (complete/near complete response was ≥75% hair regrowth from baseline as determined by SALT score). Majority of patients had severe AA (SALT ≥ 50) (n = 9/17, 52.94%), while five patients had AT and three had AU. All patients had received either systemic glucocorticoids (GCS), which included oral mini pulse (OMP) (n = 8), intravenous pulse steroids (n = 4), and daily oral GCS (n = 6) or immunosuppressive agents (ISAs) which included cyclosporine (n = 14) followed by methotrexate (n = 6) and azathioprine (n = 6). Mean SALT score prior to starting tofacitinib was 74.23. Mean dose of tofacitinib used was 13.23 mg (10-15 mg) and mean duration of treatment was 9.23 months. Latest percentage change of SALT score ranged from 70.58% to 100%, with an average of 91.47%. Most patients showed complete/near complete response (13/17, 76.47%). Tofacitinib was found to be safe and effective in severe/refractory AA, AU, and AT patients recalcitrant to other treatment modalities in our study. Further studies are needed to assess the effect of these targeted drugs on JAK-STAT expression or tissue cytokines involved in the pathogenesis of AA using immunohistochemistry.

Comparative Study of Intravenous Methylprednisolone Pulse Therapy versus Oral Prednisolone Minipulse Therapy in Progressive Vitiligo

Abstract Background: Vitiligo is an idiopathic acquired illness characterized by limited depigmented macules and patches. We aim to compare intravenous (IV) methylprednisolone pulse therapy with oral prednisolone minipulse therapy in the treatment of progressive vitiligo. Objective: The assessment of the efficacy of both treatment methods in the arrest of the progression of vitiligo and repigmentation of the existing lesions. Materials and Methods: A total of 60 patients, 30 in each group, were enrolled for the study. Each patient underwent a detailed clinical, general physical, systemic, and thorough dermatological examination. A set of routine investigations, consisting of hemoglobin%, total leukocyte count, differential leukocyte count, urine routine examination, blood sugar (fasting and postprandial), liver function tests, renal function test, serum electrolytes, Montoux test, chest X-ray posteroanterior view, and thyroid profile were carried out before the analysis. Clinical photographs were taken before the start of therapy and after each month thereafter were used for the analysis after taking written consent. Results: The age of vitiligo patients considered for the study ranged from 13 to 70 years. The ratio of male-to-female patients considered for the study was 22:38 (36.6%: 63.3%). The duration of instability in vitiligo cases studied varied from 6 months to 2 years. In both Group A and Group B, the maximum number of patients (66.7% and 86.7%, respectively) had unstable vitiligo for 6 months to 1 year. Percentage repigmentation was better in Group A (IV) than Group B (OMP). In Group A, 17 out of 20 (85%) patients had shown different degrees of repigmentation, while 20 out of 30 (66.7%) patients of Group B had shown the same. This was statistically insignificant. Types of repigmentation observed in patients were of the following types: perifollicular, marginal, and combined. In both groups, all patients showed perifollicular regimentation. Conclusions: In progressive vitiligo, it was observed that oral mini pulse with prednisolone is superior to IV methylprednisolone pulse therapy for the arrest of progression. Considering the cost, mode of administration, hospital admission, loss of man-hours, and patients’ compliance, OMP was considered simpler and cost-effective.

A Comparative Study on the Efficacy and Safety of Using Azathioprine Alone, Combining It with Narrow Band (UVB) and to Oral Minipulse Steroids Plus NB-UVB in Stabilizing Active Non-Segmental Vitiligo

Abstract Background Vitiligo is an acquired, non-contagious, pigmentary disease resulting from the loss of melanocytes from skin, hair and mucous membranes. The pathogenesis of vitiligo is still not fully understood and mounting evidences have suggested that it might be related to autoimmunity and oxidative stress. Aim of the Work To evaluate the efficacy and safety of AZA in stabilizing disease progression of active vitiligo, compare it with its combined therapy with NB-UVB and with OMP steroids combined with NB-UVB. Patients and Methods This study included Forty five patients complaining of active non-segmental vitiligo divided into three groups: Group (A): 15 patients received narrow band therapy with oral mini-pulse steroid therapy (dexamethasone) as a single dose on two consecutive days repeated every week for 3 months, Group (B): 15 patients received narrow band therapy (same regimen as in group A) combined with oral azathioprine 50 mg twice daily for 3 months, and group (C): 15 patients received oral azathioprine alone for 3 months. Results Evaluation of treatment response was done at 4, 8 and 12 weeks of treatment by assessing the onset of stoppage of disease activity as well as the onset of repigmentation and its extent using VES, VES plus and VIDA scores. Encountered side effects were also documented. Conclusion Both oral minipulse steroid therapy and azathioprine are effective in stopping the activity of vitiligo, either as monotherapy or better combininig with NBUVB, though azathioprine being inferior to OMP steroid therapy in arresting disease progression and inducing re-pigmentation. Thus, it can be used as a good alternative when there is contraindication to use systemic steroids.

Comparison of Oral Azathioprine and Oral Mini Pulse Steroid in the Treatment of Vitiligo: An Open-Label Randomized Controlled Trial.

Vitiligo is a common acquired depigmentory skin disorder supposed to be of autoimmune aetiology. Different immunosuppressants have been tried with varying success. Azathioprine has been less studied in vitiligo. To study the efficacy of oral azathioprine and compare with systemic steroid in the treatment of vitiligo. It was an interventional study with multi-armed (three), parallel group, an open-label, randomized controlled trial with allocation ratio of 1:1:1. Patients of vitiligo aged between 18 and 60 years having more than 5% body surface involvement were included in the study. Patients were divided into three groups. Group A-patients received oral azathioprine 50 mg OD daily, group B-patients received combination of oral azathioprine 50 mg OD and PUVASOL and group C-patients received combination of betamethasone oral mini pulse (OMP) and PUVASOL. All the groups were treated for 1 year. Repigmentation was evaluated by vitiligo area severity index (VASI), and stabilization was evaluated by vitiligo disease activity (VIDA). Group A, group B and group C showed 24.24%, 53.24% and 47.28% improvement in VASI score, respectively, at the end of 1 year. Group B and group C showed statistically significant superior repigmentation as compared to azathioprine monotherapy. Though azathioprine and betamethasone showed equivalent efficacy, azathioprine has a better safety profile. Side effects were minimal in azathioprine groups, whereas 50% patients developed various side effects in group C. Azathioprine is safe and effective option in the treatment of vitiligo.

Improvement in Lesions of Co-Existing Lichen Amyloidosis and Vitiligo with Dexamethasone Oral Mini Pulse Therapy.

Improvement in Lesions of Co-Existing Lichen Amyloidosis and Vitiligo with Dexamethasone Oral Mini Pulse Therapy.

Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor and Gene Polymorphism (rs755622G>C) in Unstable Vitiligo Patients

Vitiligo pathogenesis is related to the macrophage migration inhibitory factor (MIF) protein. This study aimed to assess the lesional MIF levels and gene polymorphisms (rs755622G>C) in patients with vitiligo. To assess the consequences of combining narrow‐band ultraviolet B with oral minipulse prednisolone as opposed to a combination with oral methotrexate on MIF levels in vitiligo patients, 50 unstable vitiligo patients and 50 controls were randomly chosen for comparison. MIF levels in skin homogenates and MIF (rs755622G>C) single nucleotide polymorphisms were assessed using the ELISA and the polymerase chain reaction restriction fragment length polymorphism (RFLP‐PCR) techniques. We found significantly higher lesional MIF levels, a higher frequency of both (GC) and (CC) genotypes, and a significantly more frequent mutant allele (C) in patients than in controls. In addition, there was a significantly lower frequency of the allele (C) among patients who exhibited moderate to marked therapeutic improvement than among those who showed minimal to mild improvement. In conclusion, tissue MIF and gene polymorphisms were associated with vitiligo. In addition, oral corticosteroids, narrow‐band ultraviolet B, methotrexate‐targeted tissue MIF, and gene polymorphisms can improve unstable vitiligo.

Juvenile localized scleroderma: A single-centre experience from India.

Juvenile localized scleroderma (JLS) or morphoea, a rare chronic autoimmune disease predominantly affects skin, subcutaneous tissue and occasionally the adjacent muscle, fascia and bone. We report the largest single-centre cohort of patients with JLS from India. Patients who were diagnosed to have JLS were enrolled from the Paediatric Dermatology Clinic and the Paediatric Rheumatology Clinic of a tertiary care referral hospital in India. Collected data included details of the clinical profile, laboratory investigations and management. We analysed 84 patients with Juvenile localized scleroderma. Median age of disease onset was 5 years, and median age at diagnosis was 8 years. Commonest subtype was linear scleroderma (57 patients, 67.7%) followed by plaque morphoea and generalized morphoea. Fourteen patients (16.6%) were noted to have extracutaneous manifestations (ECMs). These included arthritis in eight (33.3%), brain parenchymal abnormalities in four (4.7%) and pulmonary involvement in two (8.3%) patients. Antinuclear antibody (ANA) was positive in eight/25 patients (32%; diffuse and speckled pattern in four patients each). One amongst these also had elevated anti-dsDNA titres. Positive ANA was found to have no association with ECMs (p 1.000). Patients were treated using methotrexate (61 patients; 72.6%), dexamethasone oral mini-pulse (OMP; 35 patients; 41.6%), calcipotriol (39 patients; 46.4%), topical corticosteroids (32 patients; 38%) and topical tacrolimus (three patients; 3.7%). Using linear regression analysis, administration of dexamethasone OMP and calcipotriol was found to be a predictor of good treatment response (p 0.034 and 0.019, respectively). Early use of systemic corticosteroids along with methotrexate may be more beneficial than methotrexate therapy alone.

Study to evaluate effect of oral mini pulse corticosteroid therapy for unstable vitiligo on hypothalamic pituitary adrenal axis suppression

BackgroundThe treatment of vitiligo is difficult and usually requires prolonged therapy. All exogenous glucocorticoid therapies can lead to the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis (HPA) suppression. Steroid therapy in the form of an intermittent pulse therapy is a much safer option than daily administration. Very few studies have been carried out to evaluate the effect of oral minipulse prednisolone (OMP) on HPA axis, and there are no concrete guidelines regarding the tapering of steroids after OMP, if needed at all. This study is a pilot study to evaluate the effect of use of OMP on HPA axis suppression in unstable vitiligo. MethodsIt is an observational prospective study approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee (IEC) of institution carried out on 30 patients with unstable vitiligo being initiated on OMP between the ages of 20–50 yrs carried out at a tertiary care hospital of Western Maharashtra for a period of one year. Inclusion criteria was all new cases of unstable vitiligo attending dermatology OPD with patients in the age group 20–50 years. Patients treated with systemic corticosteroids in the last six months, on prolonged topical steroid therapy, patients on any other immunosuppressive therapy, patients having contraindications for exhibiting systemic steroids were excluded from the study. ResultsThirty steroid-naive patients (11 women, 19 men) with a median duration of vitiligo of 10.67 months duration were evaluated. A total of 19 (63.3%) were males and 11 (36.6%) were females with mean age 29.13 years. Serum cortisol levels at baseline, one week, and the end of therapy were 291.1 nmol/L, 288.7 nmol/L, and 304 nmol/L, respectively. Acton Prolongatum (ACTH) stimulated serum cortisol levels at baseline, one week, and the end of therapy were 658.3 nmol/L, 626.1 nmol/L, and 630.1 nmol/L, respectively. Time taken to achieve stability was a mean of 4.41 months post-initiation of OMP in 22/25(73.3%) patients. In 4/30 (13.3%) patients, no stability was achieved at six months of follow-up. ConclusionsThis pilot study has shown that there is no suppression of serum cortisol levels by OMP prednisolone if taken in a weekly dose. OMP steroid therapy is not very effective to achieve a decent level of repigmentation alone; hence, they should be used in combination with other modalities like topical steroids or phototherapy to achieve better repigmentation. The patients did not develop any systemic or cutaneous side effects due to the drug; hence, prednisolone can be considered a safe drug for pulse therapy.

Efficacy and safety of oral methotrexate versus oral mini pulse betamethasone therapy in the treatment of lichen planus: a comparative study

Background Lichen planus (LP) is a chronic inflammatory mucocutaneous disease. Systemic corticosteroids are the treatment of choice for generalized LP but their use is limited due to side effects. Oral mini pulse (OMP) therapy represents a good alternative. Also, Methotrexate (MTX) can be used as an alternative and safe modality in LP. Objectives To compare the efficacy and safety of oral MTX versus OMP betamethasone in the treatment of different types of LP. Patients and method The study included 40 patients presenting with LP who were randomly divided into two groups. Group A for oral MTX 7.5 mg weekly & group B for OMP betamethasone 3 mg weekly for a maximum of 12 weeks. Basic laboratory investigations were done on both groups. Follow-up investigations were done on the 2nd, 4th, 8th and 12th weeks. The percentage of improvement in each patient was calculated on a scale according to the appearance of new lesions, degree of pruritus/pain, subsidence of cutaneous lesions and clearance of the oral lesion Results In the MTX group, 55% of patients showed excellent improvement, 25% showed good improvement and 20% showed partial improvement. In the OMP group, 85% of patients showed excellent improvement, 10% showed good improvement and 5% showed partial improvement. The reported clinical and laboratory adverse effects were tolerable and didn’t lead to the discontinuation of treatment. Conclusion OMP betamethasone and low dose MTX may be considered effective and safe lines of treatment for different types of LP and may represent good and safe alternative options for conventional daily corticosteroid therapy.

COVID-19 Pandemic and Vitiligo: Changing Paradigms.

Dear editor, The COVID-19 pandemic has now grown to colossal proportions, affecting nearly 233 million cases, with 4.7 million deaths (WHO dashboard 1-10-2021). How vitiligo management has changed during the pandemic has not been explored.[12] A cross-sectional Google form (Google LLC) based questionnaire was developed by a group of 4 consultants of our institutional pigmentary clinic (later updated by Delphi group of 15 members) [Annexure 1] and disseminated, via email to a few national and international experts who had five or more years in managing vitiligo and had been the first or corresponding authors of articles published on the same. Totally 103 participants responded to the survey. Most worked in private clinics (35; 33.9%), followed by university hospitals (30; 29.1%), public hospitals (21; 20.4%), and corporate hospitals’ centers of excellence (17; 16.5%). All questions were answered by the participants. The approximate number of both stable (80.2 ± 26.4/month to 10.4 ± 8.6/month, P < 0.05) and unstable vitiligo cases (60.4 ± 32.8/month to 7.5 ± 7.2/month, P < 0.05) seen by study participants decreased during the lockdown [Figure 1]. A gross decrease in number of face-to-face consultations during the lockdown (74.7% to 13.5%; P < 0.05) was noted [Figure 1].Figure 1: Consultation trends by physiciansThose who presented during the pandemic phase predominantly had unstable disease and nearly 10% presented with an unstable disease for the first time during the pandemic. There was a gross reduction in the usage of almost all scoring systems [Table 1].Table 1: Use of scoring systemsThirty-five percent of respondents had been posted in care of COVID-19 patients, of them 14 (40%) agreed that these assignments had negatively impacted the care of their vitiligo patients due to unavailability and less time. A few (1.9%) of the participants had vitiligo patients who were COVID-19 positive [Table 2].Table 2: Characterization of the vitiligo patients with COVID-19 positiveThe majority of participants (65; 63.1%) felt pandemic had a negative impact on the quality of life of vitiligo patients (VITIQoL and by physician perception). Twenty participants (19.4%) advocated switch over from previous systemic treatment to topical therapies, and disfavored the use of systemic immunosuppressants, phototherapy, and immunomodulators [Table 3].Table 3: Comparison of the initiation of systemic immunosuppressants and immunomodulators during the COVID-19 lockdownFor patients affected with COVID-19, 60 (58.25%) wished to continue only oral mini pulse with dexamethasone at the same dose, whereas 70 (67.9%) felt that the dose of agents like oral cyclosporine, azathioprine, and mycophenolate mofetil should be reduced by 25%–50%. The majority (78; 75.7%) felt that phototherapy can be continued at the same dose and frequency, if feasible. There was hesitation in the initiation of systemic immunosuppressive therapy. The highest level of safety so far appears to be with low dose mini pulse of dexamethasone and with apremilast. The risk is moderate with methotrexate, and high with mycophenolate mofetil and JAK inhibitors.[2] Xu et al.[3] had found that delay in initiation of systemic immunosuppressants was the most significant risk factor for recurrence of vitiligo during the pandemic. Now even though there is a lesser number of cases, the unstable cases constitute a higher proportion. We had observed a trend of hesitancy in the initiation of immunosuppression. Steps need to be taken by the vitiligo task force to regularize the role of adequate immunosuppressive treatment, especially in patients with unstable vitiligo. Financial support and sponsorship Nil. Conflicts of interest There are no conflicts of interest.

Comparative study of adverse drug reactions of corticosteroids

Background: In Dermatology, corticosteroids (CSs) are widely prescribed in either topical or systemic formulations in various potencies to tailor therapy according to severity of the underlying condition, area of involvement, and patient’s age. CSs, however, are associated with a number of serious adverse effects, particularly with long-term usage. Aims: To study the relationship of adverse drug reactions (ADR) of long-term glucocorticoids (GC) with age, sex, smoking, alcoholism, underlying dermatologic conditions and co-existing medical disorders. To study CSs in relation to musculoskeletal system, metabolic & blood sugar levels and eye complications. To compare the ADR in cases on Oral mini pulse therapy (OMP) and Daily glucocorticoid (DGC) therapy groups. Methods: This was a hospital based prospective study done on 130 patients on OMP or Daily glucocorticoid therapy for more than 1 month duration, over a period of 2 years. Results: Cushingoid features and weight gain were observed in both groups. Bone changes, diabetes mellitus and hypertension were seen in patients on DGC therapy. Bone changes were seen in 17 (18.88%), Steroid induced Diabetes Mellitus (SDM) in 27(30%), Hypertension in 12(13.3%), Lipid abnormalities (in the form of raised cholesterol and triglyceride levels) in 7 (7.77%), Cataract in 12(13.33%) and glaucoma was seen in 1(1.11%) out of 90 patients on Daily glucocorticoid therapy.1 patient each out of 40 in the OMP group developed cataract and hypertension. Conclusion: In conditions like vitiligo, alopecia areata and lichen planus particularly in children, it is preferable to give OMP. In pemphigus group of disorders while using daily GC therapy, continuous monitoring and ADR prevention measures should be considered for patient's benefit.

Efficacy of narrow band UVB with or without OMP in stabilization of vitiligo activity in skin photo-types (III-V): A double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled, prospective, multicenter study.

NB-UVB has long been the vitiligo management pillar with capability of achieving the main treatment outcomes; repigmentation and stabilization. Its stabilizing effect in dark skin has been debatable. However, randomized controlled trials regarding NB-UVB ability to control disease activity are lacking. To assess stabilizing effect of NB-UVB in comparison to systemic corticosteroids, the mainstay in vitiligo stabilization, in skin photo-types (III-V). This is a multicenter, placebo-controlled, randomized, prospective study. Eighty patients with active nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV) (Vitiligo disease activity (VIDA) ≥2) were randomized to either NB-UVB and placebo (NB-placebo) or NB-UVB and dexamethasone oral mini-pulse (OMP) therapy (NB-OMP) for 6months. Sixty four patients completed the study, 34 in the NB-OMP group and 30 in the NB-placebo group. Patients were evaluated fortnightly according to presence or absence of symptoms/signs of activity. In spite of earlier control of disease activity observed in the NB-OMP group, it was comparable in both groups by the end of the study period. Disease activity prior to therapy, but not extent, was found to influence control of activity in both groups. Thus, NB-UVB is a safe sole therapeutic tool in vitiligo management. Not only does it efficiently achieve repigmentation, but also it is a comparable stabilizing tool for systemic corticosteroids in spite of slightly delayed control. NB-UVB is the only well-established vitiligo therapy that can be used solely whenever corticosteroids are contraindicated or immune-suppression is unjustified. Nonetheless, its combination with corticosteroids expedites response and improves compliance.

Use of Oral Mini Pulse Dexamethasone in Vitiligo Patients: Review Article

Use of Oral Mini Pulse Dexamethasone in Vitiligo Patients: Review Article

Oral mini-pulse steroid therapy in severe chronic urticaria

Background: Treatment of chronic urticaria can be difficult at times. The present study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of oral mini-pulse (OMP) therapy with methylprednisolone in management of severe chronic urticaria (CU). Methods and material: 100 patients with severe chronic urticaria, not controlled with maximum dose of a second generation antihistamine, were enrolled in the study after an informed written consent. All patients were treated with methylprednisolone 16 mg tablet on two consecutive days of a week for 2 months along with levocetirizine 5 mg tablet once daily. All patients were reviewed at 0, 2, 4, and 8 weeks with urticaria activity score (UAS). Results: The study comprised of 100 patients (33 males and 67 females) with severe chronic urticaria. 29 patients (29%) had raised TSH levels while Autologous Serum Skin Test was positive in 37 patients. Mean UAS in patients treated with OMP was 5.76 at baseline which reduced to 0.6 at the end of treatment period. Conclusion: Mean UAS showed a significant decline following OMP therapy with methylprednisolone. Most of the patients maintained the benefits of therapy at the end of follow up period of 4 months.

Management of Vitiligo Amidst the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Survey and Resulting Consensus.

Background:COVID-19 pandemic has changed the approach of dermatologists, with respect to management of numerous conditions, vitiligo being one of them. However, there is a lack of consensus on how to deal with patients of vitiligo, as we battle this pandemic.Aim:To conduct a questionnaire-based survey, amongst expert dermatologists; in order to understand the impact of COVID-19 on the management of vitiligo.Materials and Methods:An online semi-structured English questionnaire was prepared and the link was circulated among 50 pan-Indian expert dermatologists, through various platforms (snowball sampling). Confidentiality and anonymity were strictly maintained. Responses were analyzed at the end of the study and a consensus statement was generated.Results:42.22% of the respondents believed that teleconsultation is adequate for the diagnosis and management of most cases of vitiligo. 64.44% were found to be comfortable in prescribing oral medications, even during the COVID-19 pandemic; of which 62% would prefer to prescribe systemic steroids; followed by 17%, 11%, 7%, and 3% who would prefer cyclosporine, azathioprine, mycophenolate mofetil, and methotrexate, respectively. 64.44% respondents would recommend phototherapy in their office and 80% would prefer home-based phototherapy (PUVAsol or handheld NBUVB devices). 86.67% would prefer to stop the oral immunosuppressive drugs, till the COVID-19 RTPCR positive patients are tested negative.Limitations:The results are based on a survey of a small albeit selected group of dermatologists who decided on the currently available information on COVID-19. The same may change depending on the nature of further available information on the virus and its effect on how we manage the patients.Conclusions:Cases for initial consultation may be seen physically, and those for follow-up may be scheduled for teleconsultation. Topical therapy may be used without any hesitation. Phototherapy may be best advised with either PUVAsol or home-based phototherapy units (handheld NBUVB devices). With regards to systemic immunosuppressives, oral minipulse therapy may be preferable in view of lesser requirement of monitoring. Surgery for vitiligo should be performed only if the psychological well-being is severely affected.